In the crucial third-round clash of the FA Cup, Arsenal confronted Liverpool in a high-stakes match following Manchester City’s comfortable victory over Huddersfield Town.
Arsenal’s season is hanging by a thread after suffering a third consecutive defeat, eliminating them from the FA Cup against Liverpool. The Gunners missed several opportunities, contributing to their own downfall.
The game began with high intensity, both teams eager to play and avoid a replay that would add strain to their busy schedules. Arsenal initially dominated, creating numerous promising chances in the first 10 minutes. Despite receiving an excellent long-range pass from Aaron Ramsdale, Reiss Nelson missed a golden opportunity. Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard also posed threats, with Ødegaard hitting the crossbar.
Liverpool, without key players like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, struggled to find their rhythm but settled as the first half progressed. The absence of a top-class striker for Arsenal was evident, particularly with Havertz taking too long for a shot. Ben White tested Alisson with a powerful drive, and Havertz missed another chance from a corner.
Trent Alexander-Arnold had Liverpool’s best chance in the first half, hitting the crossbar with a powerful strike. In the second half, Liverpool increased their attempts on goal, but Arsenal’s substitute Gabriel Martinelli injected energy, although he was stopped by Alexander-Arnold.
With under 15 minutes remaining, Liverpool came close to scoring, but Ramsdale’s excellent save denied Luis Díaz, and Diogo Jota’s header hit the bar from the resulting corner.
Liverpool finally broke the deadlock in the 80th minute when Jakub Kiwior inadvertently headed into his own net from an Alexander-Arnold free kick. Despite Arsenal’s efforts for a comeback, Liverpool secured the win in injury time, with Díaz scoring after a defensive break.
As inquiries mount for Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, Liverpool, under the leadership of Jurgen Klopp, continues their successful campaign. The contrasting fortunes of the two teams underscore Arsenal’s challenges, while Klopp’s side moves forward with confidence.
